SKIL RT1322-00 14 Amp Plunge and Fixed Base Router Combo User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe operation, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the SKIL RT1322-00 14 Amp Plunge and Fixed Base Router Combo. Please read and understand all instructions before using the tool to ensure safe and effective operation. This router is designed for woodworking applications, offering versatility with its interchangeable fixed and plunge bases.

Figure 1.1: SKIL RT1322-00 Router with Fixed Base (right) and Plunge Base (left).

2. Safety Instructions

Always follow basic safety precautions when using electrical tools to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. Keep this manual for future reference.

General Power Tool Safety

• Work Area Safety: Keep the work area clean and well-lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
• Electrical Safety: Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces.
• Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use hearing protection when operating the tool for extended periods. Dress properly; avoid loose clothing or jewelry. Secure long hair.
• Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. Disconnect the plug from the power source before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.

Router Specific Safety

• Ensure the router bit is securely tightened in the collet before operation.
• Always use sharp router bits. Dull bits can cause kickback and overheating.
• Keep hands clear of the router bit during operation.
• Secure the workpiece firmly before routing.
• Never start the router with the bit in contact with the workpiece.
• Always feed the router against the direction of bit rotation to prevent the router from running away.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are present in your package. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact SKIL customer service.

• 14 Amp Router Motor
• Fixed Base
• Plunge Base
• 1/2 inch Collet
• 1/4 inch Collet
• Collet Wrench
• Clear Sub-Base
• Two 1-1/4 inch Dust Extraction Adapters
• Edge Guide
• Depth Adjustment Wrench
• Chip Shields

Figure 3.1: All components included with the SKIL RT1322-00 Router Combo.

4. Setup

4.1 Attaching the Base

The router motor can be used with either the fixed base or the plunge base.

1. Ensure the router is unplugged from the power source.
2. Align the router motor with the desired base (fixed or plunge).
3. Insert the motor into the base and secure it by tightening the locking lever or knob provided on the base. Ensure it is firmly seated and cannot rotate.

Figure 4.1: Router motor securely attached to the fixed base.

Figure 4.2: Router motor securely attached to the plunge base.

4.2 Installing Router Bits and Collets

1. Ensure the router is unplugged.
2. Select the appropriate collet (1/2 inch or 1/4 inch) for your router bit shank.
3. Insert the collet into the collet nut, then thread the collet nut onto the router spindle.
4. Insert the router bit into the collet, ensuring at least 3/4 of the shank is inserted.
5. Use the provided collet wrench to tighten the collet nut securely. Do not overtighten.

4.3 Depth Adjustment

Fixed Base: Loosen the depth adjustment knob, set the desired depth using the scale, and then tighten the knob.

Plunge Base: Set the desired depth using the depth rod and turret stops. The plunge base offers three coarse depth settings and micro-depth adjustment for precision.

4.4 Dust Extraction

Attach the appropriate 1-1/4 inch dust extraction adapter to the base and connect it to a vacuum system for efficient dust removal during operation.

4.5 Edge Guide Installation

The edge guide can be attached to either base for routing parallel to an edge. Insert the guide rods into the designated slots on the base and secure them with the thumbscrews. Adjust the distance from the bit to the guide as needed.

Figure 4.3: Router with plunge base and edge guide set up for operation.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Powering On/Off

Plug the router into a suitable power outlet. The Live Tool Indicator will illuminate when the router is connected to power, indicating it is ready for use. The router features a soft start function, which gradually increases motor speed from 0 to 25,000 RPM, providing a controlled start and reducing torque kickback.

Figure 5.1: Router in operation, showcasing the soft start functionality.

5.2 Speed Control LCD Display

The router is equipped with a Speed Control LCD Display that allows you to select the bit type and material for suggested speed settings. This feature helps maintain optimum RPMs for various tasks and materials. Electronic feedback ensures the motor maintains its set RPM even under load.

Figure 5.2: The LCD display showing speed settings and material selection.

Figure 5.3: User interacting with the router's speed control LCD display.

5.3 Routing Techniques

Fixed Base Routing: Ideal for edge profiling, dadoes, and rabbets where a consistent depth is required. Once the depth is set, the router maintains that depth throughout the cut.

Plunge Base Routing: Suitable for mortises, stopped dadoes, and freehand routing where the bit needs to be lowered into or raised from the workpiece during the cut. The plunge mechanism allows for controlled entry and exit of the bit.

Always perform test cuts on scrap material to verify settings before routing your final workpiece.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your router.

• Cleaning: After each use, unplug the router and clean the tool, especially the collet area and bases, with a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust and debris.
• Collet Care: Inspect the collet and collet nut for wear or damage. Replace if necessary to ensure proper bit gripping.
• General Inspection: Periodically check all screws and fasteners for tightness. Inspect the power cord for any damage.
• Lubrication: The router motor is equipped with sealed bearings and does not require additional lubrication.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your SKIL RT1322-00 router, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

For issues not listed here or if solutions do not resolve the problem, contact SKIL customer support.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

This SKIL RT1322-00 Router Combo comes with a 1 Year Limited Warranty. For warranty claims, technical support, or replacement parts, please contact SKIL customer service. Retain your proof of purchase for warranty validation.

Manufacturer: SKIL